Basil, Cardinal Basil Seeds

Cardinal Basil Seeds, 20 seeds per package

Edible ornamental with showy flowers. Very uniform, upright habit. Flat, 2-3" long leaves that are larger than typical Thai types; purple stems and dark, purple-red flower bracts. Cinnamon/clove flavor with hints of anise. Slower growing and slow to bolt; needs a long, warm season for cut-flower use.

DAYS TO GERMINATION: 5-10 days at 65-70°F (18-21°C)

SOWING: Direct sow seed : Plant seeds 1/4" deep, 2-3 seeds per inch, in rows 18" apart. Firm the soil over the seeds. Thinning is not necessary, but a final spacing of 4-8" apart produces healthy, full plants. Note: requires some light for germination, so sow more shallowly than other basils. Transplant: Sow indoors 6 weeks prior to setting out. Plant 1/4" deep and keep at 70°F (21°C) for best germination. Transplant to the field when seedlings have 3-4 sets of leaves, spacing at 4-8" apart in rows 18" apart.

LIGHT PREFERENCE: Sun